John Wayne’s 100th birthday is being celebrated in Newport Beach, California at the 8th Newport Beach Film Festival. A press briefing was held on John Wayne’s former boat, the Wild Goose, to announce the launch of the official John Wayne web site JohnWayne.com. The press conference also was used for the announcement of the Newport Beach Film Festival’s retrospective of John Wayne’s works.

The attendance of four generations of John Wayne’s family made the event extra special. During the press conference the speakers included a short tribute by Pilar Wayne, John Wayne’s wife for many years. Ethan Wayne and Patrick Wayne also shared stories growing up and working in films with their famous father. On hand was the former captain of the Wild Goose, Bert Minshall, who shared some very colorful sea stories in private on the bridge of the 136 foot converted minesweeper.

This is the first of a number of stories on the John Wayne birthday celebration and the 8th Newport Beach Film Festival. The festival starts April 19 with the film “Beautiful Ohio” starring William Hurt and Rita Wilson. The film is the directorial debut of Chad Lowe who is expected to attend the premier night. More at www.My-Entertainment-News.com

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